Send us a textJoin me this week on Positively Leading as I speak with Tamara Doig, a principal from Perth, who transitioned from media and journalism to education. Her love for teaching began through volunteering, and she now leads schools to create innovative opportunities for all learners, promoting curiosity, agency and real-world skills.We discuss the Creative Schools Project, which blends traditional teaching methods with creative approaches, enhancing engagement in HASS and science. Tamara shares insights on balancing explicit teaching with foundational skills in literacy and numeracy for a well-rounded educational strategy.We also discuss effective time management and leadership development, highlighting strategies for balancing professional and personal commitments. Tamara emphasises the importance of mentorship and community engagement in recognising potential within teams. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Send us a textWhat if the key to unlocking your child's potential lies in understanding their unique learning needs? Join us on Positively Leading as we sit down with Susan Hughes, a former management accountant turned passionate advocate for children with learning disabilities. Learn how Susan's personal journey with her son’s dyslexia and ADHD inspired her to transform her career and become a beacon of support for parents and educators navigating similar challenges. Her story is a powerful testament to the significance of tailored education and the unwavering role of parental involvement.Struggling to manage classroom dynamics when dealing with ADHD? This episode unpacks the complexities of ADHD in school settings, shedding light on its overlap with autism and the executive functioning challenges that can trip up students. Discover practical, evidence-based strategies for educators to create more supportive and understanding learning environments. We delve into common misconceptions and emphasize empathy and personalized approaches over one-size-fits-all solutions. It's not just about awareness; it's about actionable steps that make a real difference for both students and teachers.Teacher burnout due to ADHD-related challenges is real, and Susan Hughes offers a lifeline. She shares insights into specialized coaching programs that blend online learning with group coaching to support educators. Learn how psychoeducation on ADHD and executive functioning can alleviate teacher stress and improve classroom management. Susan highlights the importance of having ADHD experts in schools to bridge the gap between home and school, providing much-needed support for teachers. Tune in for invaluable resources and strategies aimed at enhancing the educational experience for everyone involved. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Send us a textToday on Positively Leading I sit down with the inspiring Amie Fabry, PhD, Director of Early Childhood at The Learning Future. Amy takes us through her captivating career journey from an early childhood teacher in Western Australia to a leadership powerhouse. She shares her unique experiences at Edith Cowan University, working with the education department, and conducting research for AERO, all of which contributed to her passion for supporting and leading educators. Amie's story is a testament to the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and the power of professional networks.Throughout this episode, Amie discusses the critical elements of effective early childhood leadership and sheds light on the often-overlooked separation of kindergarten and pre-primary teachers from the rest of the school community and the profound impact it has on educators and students alike. The discussion dives into the necessity of specialized knowledge, collaboration time, and a deep understanding of policy documents for leaders to truly support educators. Principals facing leadership roles without early childhood expertise is another challenge we explore, emphasizing the need for a well-rounded and informed leadership team.Finally, we explore Amie's groundbreaking framework, "Lead with Intention," which aims to elevate the status and leadership roles of early childhood educators. This framework fosters a more collaborative and supportive educational environment by recognising their expertise and creating career progression opportunities. Amie also shares her global insights from visits to early childhood education centers in Finland and Denmark, highlighting the importance of community integration and robust support systems. Tune in for a rich conversation filled with practical strategies and inspiring stories to enhance early childhood leadership and education. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Send us a textWelcome back to Positively Leading the Podcast! This episode is a little different as it gives you a peek behind the scenes at Positively Beaming HQ. Have you ever wondered what a day in the life as a coach and consultant looks like. Join me, Jenny Cole, as I pull back the curtain on my daily life, from scheduling interviews with school leaders during their busiest times to planning workshops. Learn  about my morning deep work routine and afternoon coaching routines that keep my energy high. In the second half of the episode, I share my business strategies and systems that enable me to manage both professional and personal commitments seamlessly. Find out how automation and pre-scheduled online activity free up my time to focus on clients' needs and maintain a strong social media presence. I also provide insights into my Facebook group, Positively Beaming for Wildly Wonderful Women, and reveal my approach to addressing client pain points with tailored workshops and leadership videos. Finally, I discuss the cyclical nature of my work schedule, from busy conference seasons to well-deserved downtime, and the luxury of scheduling personal activities like mid-week hairdressing appointments to ensure a balanced lifestyle. Tune in for a candid and inspiring look at mastering the art of coaching and consulting while prioritizing self-care. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Send us a textIn this episode we delve into the fascinating world of the DISC personality profile. I'm Jenny Cole, and I'm excited to explore this invaluable tool that can truly transform leadership and team dynamics. Have you ever wondered why some leaders just seem to effortlessly connect with their teams? Well, it's not magic—it's all about understanding individual work styles and preferences.In this episode of Positively Leading, I'll be your guide as we unpack the four personality types of the DISC model. We'll discover how our individual needs shape our daily interactions in powerful ways. From the goal-oriented 'D' to the collaborative 'I,' and from the methodical 'S' to the conscientious 'C,' you'll gain insights that are not only fascinating but also incredibly practical.Get ready to enrich your leadership toolkit with wisdom that goes beyond surface-level behaviors. This episode is a must-listen for leaders, educators, and anyone curious about the psychology of workplace dynamics. By the end, you'll have a deeper appreciation for the diverse strengths your team members bring to the table and how to leverage these strengths for collective success.Come join me on this journey as we decode the intricacies of the DISC model and learn how to make every interpersonal interaction count. Let's unlock the secrets of the DISC profile together! Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Send us a textEver wondered how to transform feedback from a dreaded task into a powerful tool for growth? This week on Positively Leading, I promise you’ll gain the insights and strategies to do just that! We start by unpacking the three essential types of feedback—affirming, coaching, and corrective—and how each can be leveraged for both professional development and organizational success. Drawing from personal experiences, we then explore how feedback can reveal hidden blind spots and drive meaningful improvement. Plus, I'll share actionable tips on cultivating a culture of trust and collaboration through consistent feedback.Next, we tackle the intricacies of difficult conversations in leadership. Learn how to approach corrective and evaluative feedback dialogues with clarity and confidence using the FAST framework: Fast, Accurate, Solution-focused, and Timely. I’ll guide you through setting the right tone, picking the perfect moment, and keeping discussions brief yet impactful. Don't miss out on our downloadable planning sheet designed to help you structure these challenging conversations for the best possible outcomes. Tune in for practical advice that will not only enhance your leadership skills but also foster a more supportive and productive work environment. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Send us a textEver wondered what truly drives your team members and how to harness that for success? Tune into this episode of Positively Leading the Podcast, where we uncover practical strategies to level up your one-on-one meetings. By asking compelling, open-ended questions, you'll gain deep insights into your team's motivations, setting the stage for a year of productivity and success. I introduce a reflection tool to streamline meeting preparation, ensuring that every conversation covers successes, challenges, well-being, and key tasks efficiently.But that’s not all! Discover how to use recording tools like Otter to keep everyone accountable and ensure follow-through on agreed actions. We emphasize the importance of keeping meetings short, frequent, and continuously assessing their effectiveness to maintain high energy and clear communication. These tips will help you foster a dynamic and productive working environment. Don’t forget to check out the additional resources provided in the links and mark your calendar for next week's episode, packed with more insights to elevate your leadership skills. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Send us a textJoin us for an enlightening conversation with Pauline Winrow, the dedicated Principal of Coolbellup Learning Centre. Discover her inspiring journey from early teaching aspirations and student politics to significant roles in labour politics and education. Pauline's personal experiences have fueled her passion for inclusive education, shaping her unique leadership philosophy.In this episode, we unpack the evolving landscape of inclusive education, highlighting the progress and challenges faced by mainstream teachers in managing diverse classrooms. Learn about the innovative strategies developed in Western Australia's Ed Support Centres and how these best practices have revolutionised education, offering specialized support that benefits all students. Pauline sheds light on the crucial role of teacher unions and professional associations in advocating for educators, emphasizing the importance of having a robust support system in place.Pauline also offers invaluable advice for new leaders, drawing from her extensive experience and commitment to social justice. She discusses the significance of well-being, sharing practical strategies for maintaining a healthy work-life balance while leading effectively. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone passionate about inclusive education, leadership, and the transformative power of dedicated advocacy. Tune in to be inspired by Pauline's unwavering dedication and heartfelt wisdom. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Send us a textWhat if you could turn an unexpected career twist into a fulfilling journey of personal and professional growth? Join us as we sit down with Emma Gentle, whose path from a teacher’s aide to an assistant principal and eventually a business owner is as inspiring as it is instructive. Emma takes us through her unique experience of balancing work and study, and how a pivotal moment in her life—her pregnancy—opened doors to new career avenues, including the creation of "The Grad Guide Mentorship."Em's story doesn't stop there. We'll explore "The Grad Guide Mentorship," a program Emma developed during her maternity leave. This mentorship program is designed to offer new graduates practical, immediately applicable professional development, focusing on trauma-informed and neuro-affirming classroom management. Emma shares how a digital marketing course and personal strengths led her to create modules that address real-world classroom challenges and the importance of aligning educational practices with children's needs.Em is dedicated to helping create a new generation of emotionally intelligent educators and leaders committed to changing schools from the inside out. Em firmly believes in prioritising the holistic development of every child and adult. She passionately supports and guides teachers and leaders, empowering them to craft classroom and school cultures that prioritise wellbeing and foster deep connections, authenticity and compassion, valuing these above all else. Tune in to hear Emma’s favourite resources for emotional intelligence, learn about her newly rebranded podcast, the EmPowered podcast, and get a sneak peek into her upcoming emotional intelligence course for school leaders. This episode promises rich insights for anyone looking to prioritize well-being and embrace imperfection in their leadership journey. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Send us a textAre you ready to transform your leadership approach and foster a culture of continuous improvement within your team? Discover how regular one-on-one meetings can be the game-changer you’ve been looking for. In this episode of Positively Leading, we dive into the powerful strategy of proactive coaching and how it can grow performance and relationships in your organization. Drawing from my extensive experience coaching senior leaders, I’ll guide you through practical strategies for conducting effective one-on-one meetings, ensuring you save time, reduce stress, and build stronger, more trusting teams.We'll explore essential elements, such as selecting the right venue, timing, and maintaining a supportive atmosphere, to make these check-ins truly impactful. Learn the significance of addressing successes, challenges, and wellbeing, and see how these meetings can prevent issues from escalating while boosting team morale. I challenge you to implement these one-on-one meetings over the next month and witness tangible improvements in your team's performance and cohesion. Don’t miss out on these actionable tips to enhance your leadership skills and create a more engaged and productive workforce. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Send us a textUnlock the secrets to building high-performance teams in schools with Australia's leading expert, Dr. Pete Stebbins. Pete's incredible journey from aspiring park ranger to clinical psychologist and organizational psychology expert offers a wealth of insights into reducing workplace stress and enhancing team efficacy. Discover why high-performance teams are essential for improving student outcomes and teacher well-being, and learn the difference between high-performance and high-performing teams. Pete shares practical strategies for creating flourishing school environments and emphasizes the critical role of collective teacher efficacy.Transform your school's environment with actionable advice from Pete on implementing high-performance team systems. Explore four key support systems—measuring whole school well-being, personalized communication using the Platinum Rule, optimizing collaboration, and fostering high-performance teams. Pete provides insights on how to involve all school teams, from leadership to facilities staff, to create a harmonious and efficient school environment. Gain valuable tips on making impactful changes, even with limited resources, and understand the transformative potential of these strategies.Tackle the inefficiencies of school meetings and focus on well-being with Pete's expert advice. Learn how to maximize meeting effectiveness by breaking agendas into proactive and strategic halves, ensuring both immediate and long-term concerns are addressed. Pete introduces the Platinum Rule for personalized communication and underscores the importance of clear pathways to success. Hear about creating systems that make the right actions easy, fostering a culture of flourishing and well-being in schools. Join us for an inspiring conversation full of practical insights for school leaders and educators aiming to make a lasting difference. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Send us a textThis week I speak with Denise Shillinglaw, whose inspiration includes Nelson Mandela and Princess Diana. Denise reveals the pivotal moments that shaped her career, her early passion for teaching, and her commitment to fostering a nurturing environment for her students. She is a published author on Two Way Learning with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and share what that means in her classroom. She even gives us a sneak peek into her personal life, including her exciting plans to run the People's Marathon in Paris.Explore how Denise champions the role of collaboration and emotional intelligence in education. From supporting EALD students to integrating principles from Brené Brown’s "Atlas of the Heart," Denise offers practical advice on making education a two-way street. She underscores the importance of understanding students' backgrounds and leveraging team collaboration to create a supportive and cohesive learning environment. Tune in for an insightful discussion on leadership, emotional resilience, and the profound impact of leading from within the team. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Send us a textEver wondered how one educator can transform the entire culture of a school? In this  episode of Positively Leading the Podcast, we sit down with Heidi McGlashan, a dedicated educator and staunch advocate for often-overlooked students. Through  stories, Heidi shares her evolution from a music teacher to an advocate for students for literacy  She recounts pivotal moments that fueled her advocacy, including a personal story about her son's struggle with reading that will resonate deeply with any parent or teacher.We also discuss the multifaceted challenges faced by teaching principals, exploring the difficult balance between administrative responsibilities and teaching duties. Heidi opens up about navigating these complexities, revealing how interruptions can  detract from strategic work. Drawing from experience she describes the dramatic turnaround of a complacent school into a high-performing one by setting higher expectations and fostering intentional leadership. This discussion is packed with actionable insights for anyone involved in educational leadership.Finally, we shift gears to focus on strategic improvement and staff well-being. Heidi delves into the importance of narrowing down improvement agendas, creating middle leadership layers, and providing essential support to educators. Hear her thoughtful advice for aspiring leaders, including the significance of mentorship and the challenges of transitioning from teaching to leadership roles. This episode is a treasure trove of valuable insights, culminating in practical tips for fostering a comfortable and supportive working environment for teachers. Whether you're an educator, school leader, or simply passionate about education, this episode promises to enrich your understanding and inspire action. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Send us a textThis episode is a little different as I reflect on the  life and leadership of Ashley Mottershead (dec),  one of the most self-reflective Principals I have had a privilege to know.  Firstly, I discuss Hamilton’s Six Essential Attributes for Successful School Leaders and highlight Ashley’s story, demonstrating the power of openness, trustworthiness, resilience, and more. Learn how Ashley’s honesty and community focus made a significant impact, embodying the essence of leading with both head and heart.In a world where connections are more vital than ever, discover the importance of nurturing your professional and personal networks. We delve into Ashley’s experience and show how maintaining wide networks of support and making small adjustments in communication can lead to stronger relationships and better leadership outcomes. We encourage you to reconnect with your own networks during the school holidays, whether it’s through a coffee meeting or a quick message. Remember, it's not just what you know, but who you know. Let Ashley’s story inspire you to strengthen your connections and lead with authenticity. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Send us a textEver wondered how taking a leap of faith can transform your career and life? Our latest episode features Karen Stuart, Head of English at a bustling metropolitan high school in Western Australia. Karen shares her incredible journey from aspiring journalist to dedicated educator and leader. She recounts her bold decision to take flying lessons to conquer her fear of flying and the adventurous move from Scotland to Australia with her young family. This episode is packed with inspiring anecdotes about stepping out of comfort zones and discovering true passion.Karen dives deep into nurturing leadership skills, emphasizing the power of self-awareness and personal development. She explains how understanding her DISC profile and utilizing tools like "Crucial Conversations" has helped her manage difficult dialogues and balance the demands of middle leadership. Karen offers invaluable insights into the art of advocating for her team while harmonizing with senior leadership, and the critical importance of bridging communication gaps to foster mutual understanding and collaboration.We also tackle the delicate balance of setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care. Karen reflects on the impact of stress and the necessity of recognizing personal limits to prevent burnout. Through heartfelt advice and real-life examples, we discuss the challenges of taking extended leave, the essential role of a supportive team, and the value of leadership training for those stepping into middle management roles. Plus, Karen shares her recommendations for continuous learning and maintaining authenticity in leadership. Don't miss this insightful conversation that highlights the importance of continuous growth and staying true to oneself as a leader. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Send us a textHow does one foster a nurturing educational environment in rural and remote areas? Join us as we explore this fascinating topic with Kate Murrihy, the Head of Humanities and Social Sciences and Languages at a regional public high school. Kate shares her journey from a small school outside of Mildura, where community support and structured mentoring set her up for success, to her current role where she passionately implements these principles to support new educators. Kate's early experiences in establishing a literacy homework club for Aboriginal students offer profound insights into creating inclusive educational settings.Kate reveals her unexpected passion for leading curriculum development in regional schools, particularly those with many indigenous students facing behavioral challenges. Through candid discussions, she shares the trials and triumphs of maintaining high expectations and providing adequate support for both students and staff. Listen as Kate offers valuable advice on managing frustrations, embracing failures as learning opportunities, and setting clear, achievable goals to ensure the success of less experienced teachers. Her commitment to creating a thriving educational environment shines through as she discusses innovative strategies and the importance of flexibility in teaching.We also delve into embedding Aboriginal Cultural Standards within the curriculum and the nuances of building trust and respect with Aboriginal communities. Kate’s reflections on gender bias in educational leadership and the role of emotional expression underscore the importance of supportive peer networks and self-reflection. Drawing from resources like "The Confidence Code" and the insights of Brené Brown, Kate emphasizes the power of vulnerability and self-assurance in leadership. This episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring stories for anyone passionate about education and leadership. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Send us a textReady to be inspired by a story of resilience and leadership in education? Join us on this episode as we chat with Tegan Greenaway, a dedicated deputy principal, inclusive education specialist, and consultant. Tegan's  journey from struggling with anxiety in high school to becoming an influential leader in education is both moving and motivating. She candidly shares her personal struggles and triumphs, illustrating the power of continuous learning and perseverance. Her unique perspective, shaped by her family's neurodiversity, fuels her passion for creating inclusive educational environments.Listeners will gain valuable insights into the importance of setting boundaries and the art of effective leadership. Tegan provides practical advice on avoiding burnout by disconnecting from work during off-hours and understanding diverse personalities and working styles. The conversation also highlights how special education strategies can enhance mainstream classrooms, showcasing the value of high expectations and tailored support for all students. Through real-life examples, Tegan demonstrates how flexibility and awareness can significantly improve educational outcomes for everyone.In the final segment, we explore the core values that underpin successful leadership. Inspired by Brené Brown's advice to prioritize learning over knowing, Tegan emphasizes the importance of respect, transparency, and authenticity in building trust and fostering collaboration. She shares practical tools and strategies, such as to-do lists and the "three C's"—consume, create, and communicate—that can enhance productivity and team communication. By recognizing individual challenges and strengths, Tegan shows how educators can create supportive and empathetic environments that empower both students and teachers. Don't miss this compelling discussion on the transformative power of inclusive education and effective leadership. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Send us a textAre you ready to  lead with authenticity and emotional intelligence? Join me, Jenny Cole, as I recap our Launching Into Leadership program, where nearly 200 female leaders have begun their leadership journey. We’ll explore the shift from traditional, hierarchical models to those that value gender balance and feminine qualities. Learn about the tools and theories that have helped these women lead with authenticity, balance, and well-being. Plus, get a sneak peek at our upcoming two-day live event designed to enhance these skills and solidify your leadership identity.In this episode I share all the key components of the Launching into Leadership program, both the online and in-person versions. We’ll delve into what it means to be an authentic leader, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and emotional intelligence. I’ll share how tools like DISC assessments can help you develop your leadership style and how shedding defensive behaviours can make leadership more joyful. We’ll discuss insights from Brené Brown, Amy Cuddy, and "The Confidence Code" on the unique challenges women face in leadership, along with strategies for career planning, networking, and finding mentors. It's about building a lasting legacy, not just holding a title, and I’m here to help you create strong professional and personal connections.We’ll also focus on trust, vision, and balancing the management of people and processes. Learn strategies for setting clear expectations and creating an environment where accountability and empowerment go hand in hand. Discover how the GROW model can improve your team coaching by promoting autonomy and problem-solving skills. We’ll also cover the power of positive psychology with practical strategies for goal setting and self-care, providing a solid foundation for your leadership journey. There is lots in this episode -  please share widely. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Send us a textJoin us for an enlightening journey with Meredith Roe, an educational technology strategy and innovation consultant. In this podcast, Meredith reflects on the pivotal moments and lessons that have propelled her career from the classroom to the forefront of global educational strategy. Through a series of insightful conversations, she shares the wisdom gained throughout her career—a journey that began with an inspiring mentor and has led her to become a school leader. Her growth from the challenges of middle leader to shaping the future of education shows the importance of mentorship and a balanced pursuit of professional ambition.Meredith takes us through her once in a lifetime experience of designing an educational campus geared towards integration and digital learning. Her leadership in this ground breaking project, followed by a career shift to digital education at a systemic level, offers a glimpse into the complexities of leading cultural change at a local, system and global level. Meredith emphasizes the significance of strong leadership and the satisfaction of navigating change.As the episode concludes, Meredith shares her personal approach to networking and the importance of professional development in building a successful career. She explains the art of cultivating relationships over coffee and the strategic use of platforms like LinkedIn in an evolving professional landscape. With an exciting new software development venture on the horizon, Meredith provides insights into the creative process and the collaborative spirit essential for bringing innovative ideas to life. For those eager to expand their leadership horizons, Meredith’s expertise serves as a guiding light, and her willingness to share more on the subject leaves us looking forward to her next appearance on our podcast. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.

Send us a textJoin me as I interview Rosie Paine, a proud Yilka Noongar Yamatji woman, and passionate educator as she shares her life and leadership story with us. Rosie talks about her experiences growing up learning from elders on her land and how this eventually led her to become an award-winning teacher and current school deputy.In our conversation, Rosie describes the importance of a strong cultural identity . She goes on to  describe the different leadership styles she's encountered and how they contribute to creating a culturally safe and inclusive educational environment.We discuss reconciliation and cultural safety in schools, topics Rosie knows well as both an Indigenous woman and educational leader. Rosie bravely shares stories of facing racism and the ongoing struggle for true reconciliation, emphasizing the courage needed for social justice and the importance of allies and open conversations.Through Rosie's personal story, we learn about the power of embracing one's identity during difficult times. She also talks about mentorship and sponsorship in professional development, showing how authentic leadership is nurtured.We touch on Rosie's life outside of education, where art provides her solace. This shows us how cultural connections can profoundly impact educators and students.To access more episodes, show notes, and links, visit my website Positively Beaming. Did you know there is more? You can access every episode, show notes, links and more via my website Positively Beaming.